The humble cufflink actually dates back to the early 16th century when ruffled shirts were tied with ‘shirt strings’.
Over time, these progressed into special shirt buttons which would match, and by 1715 buttons had evolved into decorative studs, which would be connected with an ornate gold chain link, hence the ‘Cuff Link’.
What style of cufflink you wear can say a lot about a person. A family man may wear antique heirlooms, whilst a practical joker may opt for something more humorous. Designer cufflinks show the world your status and desire for quality, whilst ladies who wear cufflinks are perceived as strong, confident women who are happy with their style.
Here are Luxury Lifestyle Magazine’s current favourites:
Salmon Gold & Diamond Cufflinks, Links of London, £1,000
Links of London was born back in 1990 when a local restaurant owner commissioned the manufacture of a pair of stirling silver salmon cufflinks as a gift for a loyal customer. Harvey Nichols loved the design and ordered a whole collection.
These gold and diamond salmon cufflinks would make a quirky and unusual addition to your haul.
Perfect for those with a passion for angling or deep sea diving, these fun cufflinks will draw attention and become a real talking point at any function or event.
Crown Cufflinks, Deakin & Francis, £279
With the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the London 2012 Olympic Games, it is THE year to be British and proud.
Surely there’s no better way to shout about your patriotism than by wearing cufflinks by a British company, based in the heart of England, who have been producing men’s accessories for over seven generations.
These beautiful Deakin & Francis cufflinks are quintessential in design and give an approving hint of flamboyant flair. Crafted delicately into silver, these crowns will add a classy and colourful touch to any formalwear.
cufflinks1786.co.uk
Theo Fennell Gold Whip Disc Cufflinks, Harrods, £2,250
Inspired by the whipping that attaches a polo stick together, the Gold Whip collection from British jewellery designer Theo Fennell presents a beautifully clean, linear aesthetic.
Crafted from 18 karat yellow gold, the Gold Whip Disc Cufflinks will punctuate your formal attire with an elegant polish. They feature swing back fastening and have a diameter of 17mm. Presented in a Theo Fennell box.
Tateossian Bull and Bear Cufflinks, Harrods, £325
Lend a playful touch to everyday tailoring with these Tateossian cufflinks.
Featuring a bull and bear head, symbolic beats of finance used to describe the upward and downward trends of the financial market, the cufflinks come in sterling silver with an oxidised finish to add definition to the animals’ faces.
Perfect for adding a subtle sense of humour to office looks.
Ted Baker, DUKBUM Duck Cufflinks, £45
Take the plunge with Ted’s unique cufflinks. His submerged duck design brings a playful touch to your smart looks (without going off the deep end).
In my opinion, Ted Baker designs can be a little hit or miss, but these are a neat little product that would make a really thoughtful gift, combining both masculinity and raising a smile.
Made from Zinc Alloy, these cufflinks are sure to bring the fun factor to your ensemble. And, at just £45, these are the bargain on my list.